WestJet Encore

WestJet Encore: A Regional Airline’s Journey Through the Skies

Imagine a small bird, limited by its wingspan, struggling to reach new heights. That’s what WestJet Encore faced when it first took flight in 2013. The airline was born out of necessity, as WestJet Airlines, Ltd., realized that their Boeing 737 fleet couldn’t meet the growing demands of their passengers. So, they turned to a smaller aircraft, the De Havilland Canada Dash 8 Q400NextGen, to break through these limitations.

With a fleet of 47 Q400NextGen aircraft, WestJet Encore began its journey as a regional carrier serving Western Canada. But like any small bird, it needed to adapt and evolve to survive in the vast skies above. In 2015, the airline underwent a transformation, adopting a new livery that featured a stylized maple leaf, symbolizing its Canadian roots.

However, just as the bird faces challenges, so did WestJet Encore. Pilot shortages led to lowered hiring requirements, and the airline had to offer higher-paying positions for pilots flying larger jets at WestJet. This was a crucial step in ensuring that their team remained strong and capable of handling the demands of regional flights.

Unionization and Workforce Dynamics

The airline’s workforce faced its own set of challenges. Initially, the pilots were non-unionized, but by November 2017, they had successfully unionized. This was a significant milestone for WestJet Encore, as it brought stability to their operations and ensured that their crew members were protected.

Meanwhile, flight attendants faced different struggles. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) continued efforts to unionize the flight attendants, highlighting the importance of collective bargaining in ensuring fair treatment and working conditions for all employees.

Strategic Shifts and Terminal Troubles

In 2021, WestJet Encore made a strategic shift. They refocused their operations on Western Canada, suspending service east of Thunder Bay. This decision was driven by the need to align with WestJet’s broader strategy and optimize their routes for efficiency.

However, this move wasn’t without its challenges. The new terminal at Calgary International Airport faced criticism from the Calgary Airport Authority CEO, who pointed out that while it looked good on paper, it lacked functionality. Passengers experienced long walks between gates and inadequate seating due to an inoperable baggage system for three years.

Despite these setbacks, WestJet Encore continued to adapt. They launched new routes to Minneapolis from Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon, and Seattle, increasing their presence in Western Canada. This expansion not only brought more passengers but also helped to boost the local economy by connecting smaller cities with major hubs.

Airline Code and Rewards Program

WestJet Encore operates under the airline code ‘WR’ and is a wholly owned subsidiary of WestJet Airlines, Ltd. The airline participates in the WestJet Rewards program, allowing passengers to earn WestJet Dollars that can be redeemed for airfare or used with partners like Air France/KLM Flying Blue, Delta Skymiles, or Qantas Frequent Flyer.

For those who prefer a more premium experience, WestJet Encore offers a Premium section with seating and no change fees. Passengers can also purchase food onboard and have access to private lounges through arrangements with other airlines.

Conclusion

WestJet Encore’s journey is a testament to the resilience of regional airlines in adapting to changing market conditions. From its humble beginnings as a small bird breaking free from limitations, it has grown into a significant player in Western Canada’s aviation landscape. As WestJet Encore continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: it will always be on the lookout for new ways to soar higher and reach more destinations.